tariff hikes

India has moved silver imports to a "restricted" category, requiring government approval, to prevent traders from exploiting a duty gap created by a recent 15% import tax hike. This move aims to curb arbitrage opportunities through the India-UAE free trade agreement, protect foreign exchange reserves, and control precious metal inflows, while exempting export-oriented industries.

India has significantly increased import tariffs on gold and silver to 15% from 6% to curb imports and protect foreign exchange reserves. This move follows Prime Minister Modi's appeal for citizens to avoid gold purchases for a year, aiming to narrow the trade deficit and support the rupee amid global economic pressures.

Sony is increasing PlayStation Plus Essential subscription prices for new users starting this Wednesday, with one-month and three-month plans seeing hikes. Citing vague 'ongoing market conditions,' the move comes shortly after PS5 console and PlayStation Portal price increases. This contrasts sharply with Xbox's recent Game Pass price cuts, drawing criticism from fans.

Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leaders and workers protested LPG price hikes in Ranchi, citing financial strain on hotels and public hardship. They criticized the Union government's policies, comparing the situation to demonetization. The BJP countered, calling the protest a political stunt and urging the JMM to reduce state VAT on fuel, highlighting issues like electricity tariff hikes in Jharkhand.

Domestic energy prices remain volatile, but you can switch to green alternatives to protect your household budget

Analysts are bullish on Adani Ports, Indus Tower, and Voda Idea, citing strong performance and growth prospects. Kotak Bank shows solid operating metrics, though RoE lags peers. Bharti Airtel's outlook remains positive despite potential tariff hike delays, with industry repair seen as intact.

The move to up the gold import duty comes days after PM Narendra Modi appeals to citizens to avoid unnecessary gold purchases for a year. But is a hike in duties an effective way to curb consumption? We take a look:

HSBC initiates SRF coverage with a buy, citing strong growth potential in specialty chemicals and performance films. Jefferies is bullish on Grasim, expecting increased capital availability for growth. Nomura sees Adani Ports expanding its marine business significantly in Europe. CLSA maintains a hold on Tata Power, believing the worst is over.

Nintendo is increasing the retail price of its Switch 2 console in several markets due to rising memory chip costs and changing market conditions. The company forecasts a decline in Switch 2 sales for the upcoming fiscal year, expecting to sell 16.5 million units, down from 19.86 million previously. This decision comes as manufacturing expenses rise, impacting Nintendo's financial outlook.

Eating out is set to become significantly more expensive as commercial LPG prices have surged by nearly Rs 1,000 per cylinder. Bengaluru hoteliers are compelled to hike menu prices by approximately 10% due to this steep increase, which follows two previous hikes in recent months. This development poses a considerable challenge to the hospitality sector.

President Trump's visit to China is overshadowed by the Iran War, which has disrupted global energy supplies and impacted his approval ratings. While trade and Taiwan remain on the agenda, the protracted conflict in Iran presents a significant challenge, with the US struggling to achieve its war aims and facing a decline in superpower status.

The Indian rupee is facing significant pressure, weakening against the US dollar due to soaring crude oil prices driven by Middle East geopolitical tensions and persistent foreign fund outflows. Despite India's robust economic growth, the currency's slide continues as the Reserve Bank of India intervenes to curb volatility rather than target a specific exchange rate.